Tag Archives: Michigan House

By – Associated Press – Thursday, February 22, 2018
LANSING, Mich. — House lawmakers want to make English the official language of Michigan.

Republicans led the way in passing a bill Thursday that would require its use in public records. State departments and local governments still could publish documents in other languages.

Rep. Tom Barrett, a Republican from Potterville, says Michigan is a diverse state. But he says diversity with “no shared values” drives people into their “own corners.” He and other supporters say the bill will encourage assimilation. [emphasis mine and I agree]

Rep. Vanessa Guerra voted no. The Saginaw Democrat says the bill could isolate people whose English skills are limited. Another critic, Rep. David LaGrand of Grand Rapids, says it’s a “dark moment” for the country if diversity is not embraced.